I love stretch goals and here’s why. It takes just as much effort to aim high as it does to aim low. And the amazing part is you might just achieve your stretch goal.

A stretch goal is anything that makes you reach a little higher. Just to clarify, it does not mean that you have to be #1 or the best in whatever you do. It means producing your personal best and going for something that you might not have thought possible.

A few examples:

1. You start your own business (which is a great accomplishment alone) — why not decide to start a business and be recognized as a leader in your industry. Both require vision and planning.

2. You enjoy being a lawyer but dislike the commute and office politics. Why not set a stretch goal to work part of the time from home? You might even be more productive and you will definitely have more time for yourself. It might just happen if you present a compelling case. I know it has worked for clients.

3. Your goal could be to publish a book. A stretch goal would be to publish a book that is on the NY Times Bestseller List. The point is either way you have to write the book and put in the time and effort so why not aim a little higher.

4. I started doing triathlons in 2007 and in 2009 I set a stretch goal to complete my first half-ironman competition. And you know what – I did it because I set my sights a little higher.

One important note, it’s ok if you do not achieve your entire stretch goal. Chances are you will be much further along than if you set an average goal.

Bottom Line: You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve if you give yourself the room to run.

“A mind dominated by positive emotions becomes a favorable abode for the state of mind known as faith.” – Napoleon Hill

Believe in yourself,

Alissa